One Stylish Mother: The Runway Trend You Already Own — White Shirts

The total fashion basic was heating up runways at Fashion Week.

A white button-down (or button-up, depending on who you're talking to) is one of those staples most of us have lurking in our closets. I've always had a hard time figuring out how to wear mine without looking like a waiter. White shirt + black pants = waiter. White shirt + black skirt = upscale waiter. White shirt + jeans = I give up, but it's hardly fashion nirvana. So I was psyched to get lots of new layering ideas from the recent runway shows. Here are my faves:

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Ralph Lauren

Worn under a black sweater at Ralph Lauren. This is black and white, but doesn't look waiter-ish at all!

Rachel Zoe

Again, under the black sweater—this time with a printed skirt. Very pretty and sexy, I think.

DKNY

Peeking out from under a simple, round-neck shift dress. This dress is too short for me (and the shoes… I dunno about the shoes) but I love how it's sporty and polished all at once.

Don't have a white shirt? I like this one from Old Navy: The slim fit and slightly-stretchy fabric will make it great to wear under all sorts of things.

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